In today’s study, Selwyn summarises the events that occurred during ‘those three days that changed the world. They were the most critical days in history. And during them, God laid down in the bedrock of the universe some anchor points that are as solid and immovable as the very throne of God itself.’
To follow Jesus, means to follow the pattern of life that He laid down while He was on earth – it also means that we too must be prepared to carry our own cross; to endure slander, to be tortured by the hands of men, and for some to suffer the pain of a violent death.
Yet, we can see past this suffering to our own resurrection (with the help of the Holy Spirit). In Mark 16:1-7 (NIV) – the text for reading and meditation, we have these fabulous words: ‘When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away.
As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.
“Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.” ‘
Likewise, when we – who are following Jesus, die – we will rise to see Jesus – just as He told us.
Any comments?
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[Sometimes, I receive comments about the type of biblical language that I use, along the lines that it might be hard for some, who are not familiar with the Bible, to understand. First off, my overall writing style is not that good at the best of times, and I often make grammatical errors. However, the spiritual understanding of my words about following Jesus does not depend on my flawed intellect and poor writing skills – the Holy Spirit is able to use my inadequate words – in His perfect way. I know that nothing stops His message being received by those He has chosen.]